Nic Chien, the son of theater icon Lea Salonga, shared that he is bisexual and spoke honestly about his struggles with gender dysphoria while growing up.
In an interview on 'Rated Korina,' Nic said his mental health challenges started early. He was diagnosed with depression at 14, and he explained that gender dysphoria played a big part in it.
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&ldquo;I felt insecure because I knew people wouldn&rsquo;t see me the way I wanted to be seen,&rdquo; Nic shared. &ldquo;They wouldn&rsquo;t see a man. They would see a girl. That thought was really painful for me.&rdquo;
He explained that there was a time when he identified as gender-fluid before fully understanding his identity.
&ldquo;I figured out that I&rsquo;m bisexual,&rdquo; Nic said. &ldquo;I&rsquo;m okay saying that out loud. I realized it back in grade five. I&rsquo;m attracted to my friends who are girls, but I&rsquo;m also attracted to guys.&rdquo;
In November 2025, Nic revealed that he had undergone top surgery and had started testosterone therapy (TRT) to help develop masculine physical traits.
Nic also shared that his transition has been fully supported by both of his parents, Lea Salonga and his father, Robert Chien. Although his parents have separated, he said they remain on good terms and made it clear that his father never cheated on his mother.
Through his story, Nic continues to speak openly about identity, mental health, and self-acceptance, helping others feel seen and understood.